The Marist Brothers

As Marist Brothers, we have absolute trust in God and depend on Mary for support and love. Marist spirituality is one of prayer, humility and simplicity. Marcellin’s preferred ways of relating to God and to Mary were through familial terms: Jesus in his “Sacred Heart,” Mary as “Our Good Mother.” From our Marist sense of family develops a spirituality that is strongly relational and affective.

The relationships Marcellin encouraged among the Brothers in the religious community and between the Brothers and their students were described in similarly fraternal and loving ways. Among today’s Marists, with the expanded presence of women, the image of “sister” has enriched even more the ways Marists relate and define their ministry. Essentially, our relationship to one another is that of brother and sister. (Water from the Rock #31)

Our attitudes towards young people find their inspiration in Mary. In contemplating Mary in the Scriptures we fill ourselves with her spirit…

Like Mary of Nazareth, who guided Jesus with tenderness and maternal love, we are called by her to bring her love and guidance to those we serve.

Like Mary of the Cenacle, we approach our work with an unselfish spirit. We seek always to be open to the Holy Spirit, working tirelessly for the communion of all people — the Church as one undivided Body of Christ.

Like Mary of the Visitation, we go without delay into the “hill country” of the lives of young people, bringing them news of the justice and faithful mercy of God. By relating to young people in a Marial manner, we become the face of Mary to them. (WFTR #27)

Like Mary of the Annunciation, we reflect upon our experiences, listening for God's voice and experiencing God's love for us. We place our trust in God and receive the spiritual energy to live our motto: “All to Jesus through Mary; all to Mary for Jesus.”

Since Marcellin’s time, the Church has deepened its appreciation of Mary as First Disciple. Marists, therefore, have a growing relationship with Mary as our Sister in Faith, a woman with dust on her feet, a woman who was disturbed and puzzled by God, who was challenged to trust and give without knowing all the answers, whose faith life was a journey. (WFTR #29)

Every day, we do our part to build God’s kingdom. It’s not easy, but then it’s not ultimately in our control. With Mary, we trust in the work of the Spirit and that we will be able to take the risks necessary so that everyone will come to know God’s love. What an adventure it is!

For a more in depth look into our Marist Spirituality (Please click on the following links to download the PDF):